WTM’S PIRATE PLAYER PROFILES

Sandfort is consistent with the Pirates’ preference for tall, “projectible” RHPs, a preference that so far has been disturbingly unproductive. He came on late as a draft prospect, but Baseball America ultimately rated him the 36th best prospect in a very strong Florida pool and 255th overall. His fastball sits at 88-91 and he doesn’t hold his velocity well (although Perfect Game USA disagrees on this point), but he’s reached 94. He has a good curve and, like most prep pitchers, a developing change. Sandfort had a commitment to Florida, but agreed to sign right after the draft for the full slot amount.

2012R: 0-1-0, 4.80 ERA, 1.40 WHIP, 15.0 IP, 6.0 BB/9, 4.2 K/9

Sandfort debuted in mid-July and made eight starts, although he didn’t pitch more than three innings in any of them. He didn’t get hit hard, but he walked more than he struck out.

2013R: 2-2-0, 4.95 ERA, 1.46 WHIP, 36.1 IP, 3.5 BB/9, 8.7 K/9

Returning to the GCL, Sandfort made progress. He had some good starts and missed some bats, but as the season went along he had increasing control problems. Left-handed batters hit .333 against him.

2014R+: 1-4-0, 10.85 ERA, 2.17 WHIP, 37.1 IP, 3.4 BB/9, 5.1 K/9

Sandfort’s season was a disaster, with opponents hitting .401 against him. He started off in the Bristol rotation, but made only five starts among his 15 appearances. He didn’t pitch any better in relief. His velocity was down to 87-89 and he didn’t show a useful second pitch.

Unless Sandfort makes some significant changes in fall instructionals or spring training, the Pirates will probably have to send him back to Bristol or even move him down to the GCL in 2015.